It is the most common mental health problem, dramatically affecting the
lives of one in five Americans.It
causes nightmarish anxiety and panic to take center stage in one's life.It’scommonplace,
but poorly understood.Millions
suffer for years without even knowing its name.

Its name is "anxiety disorder”.Undiagnosed and untreated, it can lead to addiction, depression
and suicide.But with
diagnosis and treatment, most people experience a dramatic improvement
in their lives.For many,
including the author of this piece, the process of healing can lead to
profound personal growth, full recovery and cure.

Chances are, in your own circle of
friends and family, someone is struggling withan anxiety disorder.A
little knowledge on your part could help make the difference between
years of needless suffering and a path to acceptance, healing and
growth.

Recognizing Anxiety Disorder

We all experience stress and anxiety – they are a normal and universal
aspect of life.In an
anxiety disorder, however, the experience is very different.One’s entire life is affected.Debilitating anxiety and fear interfere with one’s work, play,
social life and relationships.

With just a little knowledge, one can
recognize an anxiety disorder.And
recognition can be life-changing, because it is the first step in
healing.

There are seven main types of anxiety
disorder, sometimes occurring in combination:

1)Panic Disorder:panic attacks, high anxiety and pervasive fear of panic;

2)Agoraphobia:avoidance of many everyday activities and situations because
of panic and high anxiety;

5)Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder:reactions to a past trauma, which may include flashbacks,
nightmares, high anxiety and emotional numbness;

6)Generalized
Anxiety Disorder:continual
and obsessive worrying;

7)Specific Phobia:panic and/or high anxiety associated with one type of
situation, such as heights or enclosed spaces.A specific phobia is considered to be an anxiety disorder only
when it is so severe that it interferes with everyday life.